LONDON (Reuters) – King Charles and other senior members of the British royal family will abandon their sponsorship of almost 200 charities and organizations after reviewing their association with more than 1,000 groups, the palace said on Saturday of Buckingham.
The review was launched after the death of Queen Elizabeth to look at all the charities and organizations that she, Charles and his wife Queen Camilla were linked to, whether as president or patron.
Elizabeth was patron of 492 organizations, while Charles was affiliated with 441 and Camilla 100. Following assessment, just over 830 were retained by the King and Queen, or passed on to other family members royal.
Organizations can apply to have a royal patron who, in return, can publicize their work and help ensure their achievements are widely recognized.
Among those who will retain their royal connection are the Royal British Legion, the armed forces’ largest charity, the Dogs Trust, the Jockey Club and the Wildlife Trusts, a grassroots nature organisation.
“Her Majesty has always demonstrated foresight, courage and leadership in helping communities, charities and businesses meet the challenges and opportunities inherent in living more sustainably and in harmony with nature,” Craig said Bennett, chief executive of the Wildlife Trusts.
“It is therefore a great honor that Her Majesty has agreed to continue her patronage.”
The review’s findings will be shared between relevant organizations this week, which marks the first anniversary of Charles and Camilla’s coronation, the palace said.
(Reporting by Michael Holden, editing by William Maclean)
